Leigh Mary Stokes

Leigh Mary Stokes

Leigh Mary Stokes is an indie pop and alternative singer-songwriter associated with The Bright-Eyed Sky (TBES). She writes emotive, infectious songs and performs with a band.

Early activity and releases

Her early work includes a three-track demo recorded in a home studio in her guitarist’s spare room. That demo is given away at gigs and gains radio support, including plays on BBC 6 Introducing, local BBC stations and student radio stations across the UK. She is also asked to make regular live appearances on BBC radio.

Debut EP and touring

Stokes records additional material to complete a debut EP after recognising the need to release music through proper channels. Her debut EP is due for release in November, followed by a UK tour. She secures a national booking agent and attracts label interest while working with her band.

Band roles and DIY release

The release is put together on a very small budget. Within the band, the drummer takes on graphic design duties, the bassist acts as tour manager, and the guitarist becomes the salesman. Stokes also arranges a cost-free digital distribution deal through a European distributor, making the EP available internationally across more than 100 digital retailers and mobile phone networks.

Music and recognition

Her songs are described as having received attention from BBC radio, with BBC6 Introducing responding positively to the material. The debut EP includes a song called “Skint”.